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Not in time, place or circumstance but in the man lies success.
-- James Joyce
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It is with trifles, and when he is off guard, that a man best
reveals his character.
-- Arthur Schopenhauer
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Character, in the long run, is the decisive factor in the life
of an individual and of nations alike.
-- Theodore Roosevelt
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The function of education is to teach one to think intensively
and to think critically... Intelligence plus character - that
is the goal of true education.
-- Martin Luther King Jr.
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If we want our children to possess the traits of character we
most admire, we need to teach them what those traits are and
why they deserve both admiration and allegiance. Children must
learn to identify the forms and content of those traits.
-- William J. Bennett
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Conviction is worthless unless it is converted into conduct.
-- Thomas Carlyle
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Character is simply habit long continued.
-- Plutarch
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Seven Personal Characteristics Of A Good Leader by Barbara White
How often have you heard the comment, "He or she is a born
leader?" There are certain characteristics found in some
people that seem to naturally put them in a position where
they're looked up to as a leader.
Whether in fact a person is born a leader or develops skills
and abilities to become a leader is open for debate. There
are some clear characteristics that are found in good leaders.
These qualities can be developed or may be naturally part of
their personality. Let us explore them further.
Seven Personal Qualities Found In A Good Leader
1. A good leader has an exemplary character. It is of utmost
importance that a leader is trustworthy to lead others. A
leader needs to be trusted and be known to live their life
with honestly and integrity. A good leader "walks the talk"
and in doing so earns the right to have responsibility for
others. True authority is born from respect for the good
character and trustworthiness of the person who leads.
2. A good leader is enthusiastic about their work or cause
and also about their role as leader. People will respond
more openly to a person of passion and dedication. Leaders
need to be able to be a source of inspiration, and be a
motivator towards the required action or cause. Although
the responsibilities and roles of a leader may be different,
the leader needs to be seen to be part of the team working
towards the goal. This kind of leader will not be afraid to
roll up their sleeves and get dirty.
3. A good leader is confident. In order to lead and set
direction a leader needs to appear confident as a person and
in the leadership role. Such a person inspires confidence
in others and draws out the trust and best efforts of the
team to complete the task well. A leader who conveys
confidence towards the proposed objective inspires the best
effort from team members.
4. A leader also needs to function in an orderly and purposeful
manner in situations of uncertainty. People look to the leader
during times of uncertainty and unfamiliarity and find
reassurance and security when the leader portrays confidence
and a positive demeanor.
5. Good leaders are tolerant of ambiguity and remain calm,
composed and steadfast to the main purpose. Storms, emotions,
and crises come and go and a good leader takes these as part
of the journey and keeps a cool head.
6. A good leader as well as keeping the main goal in focus
is able to think analytically. Not only does a good leader
view a situation as a whole, but is able to break it down
into sub parts for closer inspection. Not only is the goal
in view but a good leader can break it down into manageable
steps and make progress towards it.
7. A good leader is committed to excellence. Second best does
not lead to success. The good leader not only maintains high
standards, but also is proactive in raising the bar in order
to achieve excellence in all areas.
These seven personal characteristics are foundational to good
leadership. Some characteristics may be more naturally present in
the personality of a leader. However, each of these characteristics
can also be developed and strengthened. A good leader whether they
naturally possess these qualities or not, will be diligent to
consistently develop and strengthen them in their leadership role.
Barbara White,President of Beyond Better Development,
(http:www.livingbeyondbetter.com) brings to the table
years of experience in leadership and education. As a
speaker and author, Barbara brings her passion and
expertise to work with people to help them grow towards
excellence and their unique potential in their personal
and professional life.
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